What measures will you advocate for to improve school safety, both physically and emotionally?
School safety is one of the most pressing responsibilities of a school board, and I am committed to advocating for measures that ensure the physical and emotional well-being of every student, teacher, and staff member in Lake Travis ISD. Protecting our schools requires a multifaceted approach that incorporates building security, proactive emergency preparedness, and addressing the underlying mental health challenges that impact our community.
Enhancing Physical Safety Measures Collaborating closely with the LTISD Police Department, Lakeway Police, and the Travis County Sheriff’s Office is critical to maintaining a strong safety plan. I support regular active shooter drills that prepare our schools for emergencies in a way that balances readiness with age-appropriate sensitivity for students. Additionally, we must continue investing in campus security measures such as secure entrances, updated surveillance systems, and access control technologies that protect against unauthorized access. Regular evaluations of our safety protocols, informed by input from law enforcement and security experts, will ensure our schools remain proactive and responsive to potential threats.
Learning from Past Tragedies It’s vital that we study past school shootings to understand how they occurred and identify preventative measures that can be implemented in our district. Examining reports, case studies, and expert analyses provides valuable insights into how to improve physical security, emergency response, and mental health support. For instance, understanding warning signs that were missed or vulnerabilities that were exploited can help LTISD refine its policies and practices to avoid similar mistakes.
Addressing the Mental Health Connection Many school shootings have a mental health component that cannot be ignored. As a board member of the Engage & Heal Foundation, I understand the critical importance of breaking the stigma around mental health treatment. Students need access to counselors, mental health resources, and programs that promote emotional well-being and teach coping mechanisms. Early intervention and consistent support are essential to identifying and helping students who may be struggling before issues escalate into crises.
Collaborating Across Sectors for a Multi-Faceted Approach Private, public, and nonprofit collaborations are essential for addressing the growing mental health challenges facing our students and families. Through partnerships with organizations like Engage & Heal, we can provide resources, education, and programs that complement the efforts of our schools. By working together, we can create a safety net of support that extends beyond the classroom and into the broader community.
Fostering an Emotionally Safe Environment Emotional safety is just as important as physical security. I support initiatives that build inclusive, respectful school cultures where bullying, discrimination, and social isolation are actively addressed. Students should feel seen, heard, and supported at school. Peer support programs, restorative justice practices, and mental health awareness campaigns can all contribute to a more emotionally safe and connected environment.
By combining strong physical safety measures with proactive mental health initiatives, Lake Travis ISD can create a safe and supportive learning environment. Our children, teachers, and staff deserve nothing less than a comprehensive approach to safety—one that prioritizes prevention, preparedness, and emotional well-being.